Sophia Schmidt covers the environment for WHYY’s PlanPhilly. Before coming to Philadelphia in 2021, Sophia reported on her home state of Delaware for Delaware Public Media and produced interviews for NPR’s “Weekend Edition.” Sophia was a 2021 Metcalf Fellow.
More from the Contributor
Delayed hearing will keep man acquitted of murder in jail until at least mid-May
Sentencing for misdemeanor convictions against Tyquan Atkinson has been delayed, keeping the 22-year-old behind bars.
3 years ago
Philly ends mask mandate, days after reinstating it
The abrupt reversal comes days after people in the city had to start wearing masks again amid a sharp increase in infections.
3 years ago
Philly area finally off the ‘worst 25’ list for ozone pollution, but still gets failing grade
The American Lung Association says while ozone levels are improving, levels of particulate pollution are less promising.
3 years ago
Could Pa. finally extend OSHA protections to public school teachers and trash collectors?
For years, Pa. lawmakers have tried and failed to extend the safety protections to state and city workers. A state-backed study could chart a path.
3 years ago
Pa. state agencies used less energy in 2021, but lagged on electric vehicle goals
In recent years, state agencies’ energy use has gone down more than 12% and saved taxpayers millions, according to a report released Friday.
3 years ago
Residents of ‘saturated’ industrial corridor in Delaware learn about their cancer risk
Years after the Environmental Protection Agency increased its risk assessment for a toxic chemical manufactured in suburban New Castle, D ...
3 years ago
Turn out your lights to help save birds migrating through Philly
Lights Out Philly started after a mass collision event killed over 1,000 birds. This year, conservationists want your help protecting migrating birds.
3 years ago
Philly pushes Harrisburg to pass law allowing safer bike lanes on state roads
The city wants to build more bike lanes that protect cyclists from getting “doored.” Officials say state law stands in the way on some major Philly streets.
3 years ago
Report says when accounting for climate and health, wind power is cheaper for Delaware
Delaware is rare on the East Coast for having no offshore wind power. A new report commissioned by the state finds it would be cost-effective.
3 years ago
Philly school asbestos inspection vote delayed to add lead paint checks
A City Council member has delayed a scheduled vote on a bill to require more asbestos inspections in Philly schools. He wants to add rules around lead paint.
3 years ago
Nonprofit renovating Cobbs Creek Golf Course could get $3 million boost with city funds
The lease with the foundation renovating the course doesn’t require the city to help with any money. But officials want to contribute $3 million over two years.
3 years ago
City nears settlement with disability rights advocates in suit over sidewalks
The city of Philadelphia and advocates report “significant progress” toward settling a suit that claims city sidewalks violate the Americans With Disabilities Act.
3 years ago